In a remarkable show of support for the culinary arts in Nigeria, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, soon-to-be First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, has publicly congratulated renowned chef Hilda Baci for her ambitious quest to break the Guinness World Record for cooking the world’s largest pot of jollof rice. This high-profile attempt not only showcases Baci’s talent but also places Nigerian cuisine and youthful ambition on the international stage.
On Friday, September 12, Lady Obareki used her official Facebook page to share a message brimming with pride and encouragement for the celebrity chef. She described Hilda Baci as a true role model, inspiring millions of young girls in Nigeria and across the African continent, highlighting the growing role of women in redefining culinary excellence and shattering stereotypes.
Lady Helen Eno Obareki, speaking through her office, emphasized the significance of Hilda’s achievement:
“I extend my heartfelt felicitations to the phenomenal Hilda Baci over her audacious attempt to set yet another Guinness World Record by cooking the world’s largest pot of Nigerian jollof rice.
“Since your grand announcement to the world two years ago, precisely in May 2023, when you became a household name, you have become an inspiration to millions of young girls across Nigeria and beyond.”
She further lauded Baci’s unwavering determination and the extraordinary drive she has exhibited. According to Lady Obareki, Hilda’s efforts are a testament to how Nigerian talent is expanding the boundaries of innovation and passion within the food industry, not just locally but around the world.
Photo credit: hildabaci/Instagram, OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT / AFP
Source: UGC
Lady Helen Eno Obareki added in her statement:
“You remain an embodiment of the true Akwa Ibom can do spirit and your latest desire and passion to cullinary mastery is taking you to a height of confident resilience, as you work towards setting a new record, in the process putting our renowned cooking prowess on the world map.”
“I celebrate excellence and hardwork, hoping that this journey propels you to break boundaries, birth new ideas and communities, as well as motivate more young people, especially girls and women to eliminate the word – Impossible and go ahead to shatter stereotypes and limitations, in living their dreams.”
Hilda Baci’s Team Addresses Questions on the Jollof Cookathon
Amid the excitement surrounding Baci’s record-chasing project, questions were raised on social media regarding the authenticity of her cooking process, especially about the rice used in the famously massive jollof pot. Some internet users expressed doubts over the logistics, sparking widespread conversations about transparency in large-scale culinary feats.
Responding promptly, Hilda Baci’s team released a behind-the-scenes video on social platforms. The footage showcased every step of the cooking, demonstrating in real time how the rice was prepared to dispel rumors and encourage confidence in the legitimacy of the record-breaking attempt. This move underlines the importance of authenticity and community trust for public achievements in Nigeria’s vibrant online space.
Federal Government Applauds Hilda Baci’s World Record Pursuit
According to recent reports, Hilda Baci’s mega jollof bid has caught the attention of top government officials. The Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, publicly applauded the celebrity chef for her relentless spirit and visionary approach. In a statement, Idris called Baci’s efforts “another demonstration of Nigeria’s global excellence,” noting how such achievements bolster the country’s international profile and inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and creatives.
The significance of this recognition extends far beyond Baci’s personal accomplishment. It represents a rallying point for national pride, demonstrating how Nigerian talent can shape cultural trends and spark worldwide conversations about African cuisine. Industry experts, including Lagos-based food analyst Ifeoma Okoye, suggest that “such bold innovations do more than attract headlines—they create new business opportunities for local producers, chefs, and food marketers, and they encourage regional tourism by showcasing traditional West African delicacies like jollof rice.”
West African food, famously peppery and deeply flavorful, has generated spirited debates from Lagos to Accra and even among diaspora communities in the United Kingdom, United States, and Europe. Jollof rice, in particular, remains a friendly—even if heated—source of national pride and playful rivalry between Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, with each claiming to serve up the best version.
The Wider Impact: Youth Empowerment, Innovation, and Cultural Tourism
Baci’s Guinness World Record attempt is notable for its ambition but equally significant for its impact on youth empowerment. According to a recent survey by the Nigerian Culinary Association, the number of young Nigerians pursuing food entrepreneurship has risen by over 30% in five years, a growth credited partly to visible role models such as Baci. She has demonstrated that success is possible on the homefront, providing mentorship opportunities and reinforcing the appeal of local food heritage on digital and international platforms.
Educational institutions and vocational centers have reportedly shown increased interest in culinary training since Baci’s rise to international acclaim. According to culinary instructor Chinedu Umeh, “When young girls see someone like Hilda succeed through passion and resilience, it changes their orientation toward food careers—and, in the long run, fosters job creation and innovation.” Additionally, food festivals across West Africa have started to feature cook-a-thon events inspired by record-setting attempts, encouraging healthy competition, collaboration, and knowledge exchange between chefs and food lovers.
Navigating Challenges and Setting Standards
Undertaking a record-breaking culinary challenge is not without its hurdles. From securing certified ingredients and reliable equipment to managing logistics for such a monumental cookathon, teams often navigate significant technical, regulatory, and health standards to meet global record requirements. All participants must adhere strictly to food safety protocols and documentation. According to officials with the Guinness World Records, transparency, thorough documentation, and independent verification are critical to a successful record attempt.
Moreover, the event must comply with environmental guidelines, ensuring that large-scale food experiments do not result in significant wastage or negative local impacts. Hilda Baci’s team has reportedly worked closely with local authorities and NGOs to distribute the cooked food to communities, turning the cookathon into not just a record attempt but also a unique act of charity and community engagement. This approach resonates with the values of Ubuntu—emphasizing collective good over individual glory.
Local and International Reactions
On social media and at local viewing parties, Nigerians have expressed wide-ranging reactions—from outpourings of support to playful banter about whether Ghanaian, Senegalese, or Nigerian jollof is superior. Notably, this event has reignited the “Jollof Wars,” with celebrities, business leaders, and diaspora communities wading in to champion their home recipes. Ghanaian chef Ama Serwaa commented: “Baci’s achievement shows the world the magic in African kitchens, making us proud no matter which country takes the top spot.”
Meanwhile, some have voiced constructive criticism, urging organizers to ensure fair play, open reporting, and transparency at every phase of the cookathon. Lagos resident and food blogger Olumide Fagbemi remarked, “When visibility is this high, you must expect extra scrutiny. It’s healthy for us as it sets a stronger standard for the next generation of record seekers.”
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Food Tourism and Industry Growth
As Nigeria and other West African nations continue to strengthen their presence in the global food narrative, such high-visibility record attempts may prompt new culinary tourism initiatives and business investments. With the support from respected figures like Lady Obareki and official nods from government officials, stakeholders are optimistic that Nigeria can leverage these opportunities to develop its hospitality, food production, and agribusiness sectors further.
In conclusion, Hilda Baci’s Guinness World Record attempt is more than a culinary feat—it’s a symbol of innovation, hard work, and the vibrant spirit of Nigerian and African youth. It reflects the growing intersection of tradition, technology, and global connectivity in shaping the region’s future.
What’s your take on Hilda Baci’s record-breaking jollof rice cookathon? Do you think Nigerian jollof deserves its global reputation, or do you have a different favorite? Drop a comment below and follow us for more in-depth updates on food, lifestyle, and trending stories across Africa!
